Terry returns to join celebrations

John Terry made a remarkable return to the Millennium Stadium this evening - less than two hours after being rushed to hospital after being kicked in the head during the Carling Cup final.

The England captain was knocked unconscious by Arsenal midfielder Abou Diaby's high kick as he tried to head the ball in the Gunners' penalty area in the 56th minute of Chelsea's 2-1 victory in Cardiff.

He fell awkwardly, landing flat on his face, and players of both teams beckoned for urgent medical attention. It was reported he had swallowed his tongue.

Terry, who had made a remarkable recovery from an ankle injury sustained on Champions League duty in midweek to be fit for the final in Cardiff, needed several minutes' attention from the physios of both clubs.

He was eventually put in a neck brace and carried off on a stretcher, with England boss Steve McClaren watching from the stands.

Terry regained consciousness but was very groggy and taken to hospital for scans on his head and neck.

But by 6pm he had returned to the stadium, still in his kit, to rejoin his celebrating team-mates following their 2-1 victory over Arsenal.